GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $3,481,859 FOR IMPROVEMENTS AT HONOLULU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
For Immediate Release: October 2, 2008
HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released $3,481,859 for improvements at Honolulu International Airport, including $2,281,859 to modernize the airport’s access control and video monitoring systems and $1,200,000 to strengthen second-level turnaround areas that will be used by new and heavier Wiki-Wiki buses.
“As we move forward with our 12-year, $2.3 billion Airports Modernization Plan, these projects will help to make Honolulu International Airport a world-class airport that is able to meet present-day security and safety challenges,” said Governor Lingle. “The continued investment in our state’s infrastructure and facilities is critically important as we work to stimulate our economy.”
Access Control and Video Monitoring System Upgrades - $2,281,859
The access control system is used to restrict access to sterile and secured areas of the airport in accordance with Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations. The existing system was installed in the early 1990s before the events of September 11, 2001 heightened security concerns nationwide. Due to the system’s age, it has become increasingly difficult and expensive to obtain replacement parts.
This project will upgrade the existing access control system from a magnetic swipe and personal identification number (PIN) system to a proximity card and PIN system. The new system will also be equipped with biometric capabilities (a form of verification that uses technology to identify features particular to an individual’s body) to comply with future TSA requirements.
Project funds will also be used to modernize the video monitoring (or closed circuit television) system, which has reached its maximum capacity, making it impossible to expand the system so that airport security personnel can monitor additional areas for unauthorized activities. The existing analog video recording system will be replaced with a state-of-the-art, digital video recording system that will be able to accommodate additional cameras and monitor a larger area.
The total project cost is estimated to be $9,139,067, which includes federal matching funds totaling $5,771,206 and a previous state allotment of $1,086,002.
The design phase was completed in May 2008. Construction is scheduled to begin in December 2008 and be completed in June 2010.
Diamond Head and ‘Ewa Turnaround Area Upgrades - $1,200,000
These construction funds will be used to install additional steel support beams at the second-level Diamond Head and ‘Ewa bus turnaround areas to increase their load capacity for the eight new Wiki-Wiki buses that have been acquired to help transport passengers from the arrival gates to baggage claim areas. As a short-term solution, steel plates have been installed in the deficient areas of these turnarounds.
Governor Lingle previously released $24,975 for project design, which will be completed next month. Construction is scheduled to begin in March 2009 and be completed in September 2009.
Other key projects currently underway at Honolulu International Airport include the construction of a new International Arrivals Sterile Corridor that will provide a more pleasant and convenient airport experience for arriving international passengers, and the construction of a 1,800-stall parking structure that is scheduled to open before Christmas.
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For more information, contact:
Brennon Morioka
Director, Dept. of Transportation
Phone: (808) 587-2150
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: (808) 586-7708
Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: (808) 586-0043
